Bob Dylan: Stigma of slavery ruined America

Bob Dylan: Stigma of slavery ruined America

September 12th, 2012by Associated Press in Local - Breaking News

In this publicity photo provided by Wenner Media LLC, Bob Dylan appears on the cover of the Oct. 2012 issue of Rolling Stone, promoting his new album "Tempest," released this week. The magazine hits newsstands Friday, Sept.14.

In this publicity photo provided by Wenner Media...

Photo by
Associated Press
/Times Free Press.

NEW YORK - Bob Dylan says the stigma of slavery ruined America and he doubts the country can get rid of the shame because it was "founded on the backs of slaves."

The veteran musician tells Rolling Stone that in America "people (are) at each other's throats just because they are of a different color," adding that "it will hold any nation back." He also says blacks know that some whites "didn't want to give up slavery."

The 71-year-old Dylan said, "If slavery had been given up in a more peaceful way, America would be far ahead today."

When asked if President Barack Obama was helping to shift a change, Dylan says: "I don't have any opinion on that. You have to change your heart if you want to change."